This dress is made from heavy linen in cornflower blue with a print in black and white.
Made in the 1940's it carries the CC41 label in the back of the neck. I believe this piece originally started life as a dressing robe which was converted into a dress. It doesn't appear to be a new conversion because there is wear over some of the alterations so it looks to have been a period conversion.
It has some slightly quirky construction points, including the zip being on the right waist rather than the left, and a there are some wobbly seams but it is still a very wearable piece.
Measurements
The dress isn't pinned on the mannequin. It will best fit a 35-28-40 but to ensure it will fit you properly, please compare the measurements below to a similar item you already own.
Flat bust 18"
Flat waist 14.5"
Flat hip 21"
Length 42" - no hem allowance
Neck to waist 17"
Underarm sleeve length 7"
Shoulders between sleeves 15.5"
Condition
This piece has lots of life left in it, but it isn't perfect and there are some points to note;
- a repair and a mark, which I think is lipstick, on the centre V opening
- a darn near the zip
- repairs under both arms
- a faint mark on the bodice front near the waist and a few faint spots in the skirt
- there are some light pulls, as so often happens with this fabric, the most noticeable is on the front right bodice - see photo
- there is some slight fade - mostly seen when lifting the collar or looking between the skirt pleats